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Hip-hop artist Travis M. blends modern-day and nostalgic rap all in one with his recent album 'The Misunderstood.' Always having a deep passion for music and poetry, Travis M. went from Houston TX to Grambling LA for college, all of which helped him hone in his skills. After opening for Young Thug and Tory Lanez, Travis M. went one step further and created an incredibly original and motivational album being 'The Misunderstood.' Travis M. takes us through the highs and lows of life while bringing all sorts of atmospheres that each speak their truth. Giving the album a fun and fresh feel with the intro track "First Dream," Travis M.'s melodic flow already stands out as a force on the album. He brings forward incredibly honest lyricism by allowing us to take a walk in his shoes while acknowledging the long hours Travis M. worked to make his dreams a reality. Spitting overtop a blissful mid-tempo beat with haunting flutes and subtle vital melodies. The overall production brings a celestial atmosphere. In contrast, Travis M.'s lyrics and message of "no pain, no gain" brings us right back down to earth. Moving towards the dark and sultry track "Know Time (feat. S.O.U.L.A.S.P.H.E.R.E)", what grabs our attention is the modern take towards psychedelic synths and hip-hop beats. Through bright, jazzy keys and a rhythmic and steady synth, the track brings a human touch when Travis M. begins rapping with all his heart about a troubled relationship and not letting it get in the way of his goals and sanity. S.O.U.L.A.S.P.H.E.R.E's vocals make an angelic appearance giving the track that back and forth dynamic and adding a heavenly female flair. With the third track "Goin Up (feat. Nikia Jnae)", the beat brings us right back to Kendrick Lamar's 2012 "good kid, m.A.A.d city" through its vibrant production and Nikia Jnae's added harmonies with nothing but soul. She brings a verse full of independence and self-worth, while Travis M. brings his low octave flow and raps a similar message of moving on to better things and sharing his success with those who genuinely deserve it. The beat brings energy and warmth throughout this inspiring track and doesn't fail to let us see our inner worth. Taking the vibes to a mellow jazz/R&B atmosphere with "Nothing Knew (feat. Nfinite)", the beat brings heavy aspects of the soul through a slow and groovy bassline, light percussion elements and jazzy keys. Nfinite takes on the majority of this track with his tender vocals and flows surrounding themes of appreciation for those who are like-minded and work just as hard to get from nowhere to somewhere. Travis M. begins rapping about retraining his mentality from moping in his pain to fuel his passion once again. It gives us a truthful and incredibly real concept that we're able to think over well after listening. Bringing back a modern atmosphere with "Wav W / Us (feat. Dende)", Dende opens up the track bringing forward similar mesmerizing vocals to Khalid and his broad range. Beautifully layering his vocals with Travis M. at the hook, the two offer deep emotions through their pure-hearted approach to singing what they feel. Dende takes his textured flow to remind us that it's not okay to hang around someone just for their clout when they're the ones who did all the dirty work. Travis M. raps about working toward his vision and providing for his loved ones, giving us an even more in-depth look into his enormous progress leading Travis M. to where he is today. Getting in our feelings with "Mood (feat. Mira)", the beat begins with filtered piano and drops into a heavy R&B beat full of soul. Travis M. goes more in-depth than rap with this track; his bars bring the vast imagery that poetry provides with an incredibly honest approach. They are bringing forward themes of longing for someone and them being his favorite distraction. Mira's vocals bring in the purest vocals from R&B/soul's prime and effortlessly vocalizes her in-depth passion meeting Travis M.'s. They both provide the deep thoughts of needing clarity to move forward and know that you're on the right path. Opening with ambient jazz piano and a ringing phone, the message within "Vinny's Message (feat. Vintage IV)" stands loud and clear. Almost acting as an interlude, this minute-long track consists of Vintage IV's voicemail message to Travis M. She lets him know how much she appreciates his work and his ability to allow creators to speak on their own platform. We're truly on the same page with Vintage IV, as Travis M. has done nothing but move us and our hearts. Taking a deeper lean into nostalgic old school rap with "Laid Off," we can sense that Travis M. incorporated this type of beat only to allow his message to stand as timeless as old school rap. The mid-tempo beat brings jazzy elements with a filtered electric guitar while giving it that nostalgic kick and rhythm. Travis M. takes this minute long track and wastes no time to let us know that he's worked too hard to let the negativity get to him. With the next track "Neo," the beat brings in similarities to Travis Scott's "Days Before Rodeo" through growling bass lines and high energy synths. Travis M. brings a darker tone and atmosphere to this track, as he channels his deep and serious vocals to let his confidence shine right through. Letting us know that he stops at nothing until he achieves his goals, Travis M. is never ashamed of his actions as he's nothing but sure of himself. With a different kind of beat on "What It Do," bringing in a variety of string patterns similar to those of the renaissance era, once again emphasizing that his messages remain timeless. Travis M. raps with authority on this track and speaks again on how he's incredibly sure of himself and doesn't need to explain himself to people who won't understand. Highlighting on this track how Travis M. is able to go from quick yet precise rapping to a whole different tone, it's evident that he's strived to let his truth flourish. With another old school inspired beat, "Xplaining Nature" begins with a quote of simply overcomplicating things by explaining. The beat brings abundant energy through a brass-type beat with nostalgic drum patterns. Travis M. brings his greatness to the stage and ironically doesn't overcomplicate things as he's carefully planned his path and proceeds with creativity. He raps of situations where it's hard not to explain things, and sometimes it's the only way out. With mellow electric guitar and ambient synth patterns, "Can You (feat. Kiana Denae)" finds a whole new meaning of introspective rap. While the beat remains steady and at a mid-tempo pace, Travis M. brings forward a very inspiring piece through his motivational bars of finding forgiveness within yourself in order to successfully heal and move forward to greatness. Kiana Danae adds her brilliant vocals with passion as she sings similar lyrics toward healing and letting time do its trick. Taking another celestial turn with "V," the intro's production and the variety of synths bring us out of reality and into our own world. Travis M. brings his entire heart and conscience with this song, as he raps about acknowledging someone's pain and growth from afar and being regretful towards leaving the situation to play out how it did. The down-tempo production emphasizes the apologetic love song that Travis M. set to portray. Another sincere and heartfelt piano intro with "Dust in the Wind (feat. Soular Sounds)" shows that the second half of the album indeed consists of heavier concepts that boggle Travis M.'s mind. This track takes on a very tragic story of taking advantage of someone and enduring trauma only to try and move forward to a brighter day. Soular Sounds emphasizes some of Travis M.'s lyrics by layering her angelic vocals overtop, giving us all sorts of emotion. Making our way to the final track of the album with "In Return," we're yet again met with another introspective and textured song. The production maintains its steady beat and haunting background vocals, which allow Travis M. to run with his cerebral flow. He ends off the album by giving a bounty of advice to listeners who want to achieve real success. He blasts through with the main message of always staying true to yourself and not giving in to society's robotic ways. Bringing in an excellent piece from top to bottom of 'The Misunderstood' album, Travis M. genuinely brings concepts to the table that we're left contemplating hours later. Discover Travis M. EP 'The Misunderstood' here. Hey Travis M., welcome to BuzzMusic! Through each individual track within your album 'The Misunderstood', you provide a concept that we’re easily able to takeaway. Does the overall album have a concept, or instead of a variety of different messages The Misunderstood is an Epic Tale of How Being Yourself Can Save The Day. Though each track can be seen as its own piece of work, the tracks tie in together more like the chapters to a novel. While the story is autobiographical, the purpose of it is to use my truth to inspire others to live theirs. With themes of perseverance, faith, and unrequited love, the album is about how one's own individuality can lead to their salvation. Misfits are made to stand out. (Note: The album title is also an entendre played off of my name. I introduce myself as Travis, The M.is.Understood.) Through many different tracks within the album 'The Misunderstood,' Travis M. mentions your producer Koala Khool and his talent. Did Koala Khool produce all the tracks on the project? What did he bring to the table? Koala Khool produced 12/15 tracks and engineered the entire project from recording to mixing and mastering. All except for Nothing Knew, Neo and What It Do. Speaking on the entirety of 'The Misunderstood' album, Travis M. speaks on many different introspective and heartfelt messages. Which track was the most difficult to create in terms of being vulnerable and exposing your emotions? The most vulnerable track is V, track 13. V was made for one of my younger sisters who went through a mental health crisis in which she ended up hospitalized. When I got the message about her from a family member I was completely shocked, since she had texted the family group chat just a few days prior. It was especially hard for me as a big brother because I felt like, in this particular instance, that I did not call my sister in a time that she could've needed me most and now we were in a position where I couldn't even call her to find out what happened. Speaking on one track in particular, “Vinny’s Message (feat. Vincent IV)”, Vincent IV speaks on how much she appreciates your work and how you allow other creators to speak on their own truthful platform. Could Travis M. elaborate on how you went about making this kind of impact? "Vintage V" is her name. The answer to that question is definitely an underlying theme of the album as well, but to answer it in two words-- Soular Sounds. Soular Sounds LLC is a production company founded by myself, Nfinite (producer of Nothing Knew, and Cover Art Designer) and Koala Khool. Soular Sounds is a platform we created to offer independent artists opportunities and resources that can help them as they grow in their craft. We book our own concerts, produce music, create graphics, and shoot visuals with the artists in our city and even in other states. Vintage V is a beloved colleague who lives in Atlanta, GA. What can we expect to see from you throughout 2020? Before the end of 2020 you can expect more visuals from the album, a return of "The MisUnderstood" vlog series on YouTube, and an EP to acknowledge my Day 1 Misfits, who were rocking with me since my GSU days. instagram.com/travismjustm facebook.com/TravisMjustM #BuzzMusic

A distorted grunge-inspired guitar leads us into Blue Willow's latest track, "Lost Again." The song is loaded with alternative rock prowess with vocal stylings that give an air of Paul Simon or Billy Corgan to create a memorable ear-catching melody. We love the imagery of escape "Lost Again" serves up. Descriptive lyrics like: "out again on the open road, where I'm going there's no tellin," "check out the West Coast, maybe Ohio, but my heart screams for Tennesee," "lookin' for good times, my friends and me" gives the listener a refreshing sense of freedom and possibility. "Lost Again" creates a yearning for the listener to set out on their unknown journey. The freedom of a wide-open highway, your hand out the window surfing in the air, just you and your best friends - where do we sign up? Blue Willow came to life in the heart of Murfreesboro Spring, Tennesse, we love the ode to Tennesee in this song. The band is completed by members Matthew Johnston (Lead Vocalist/Rhythm guitarist), Frank Dremel (Lead Guitarist), Mike Chapman (Drummer), and Adam Beckleheimer on bass. "Lost Again" is a catchy, freeing trip of a song. We cannot wait to hear what Blue Willow turns out next. Discover "Lost Again" here. Hey Blue Willow, and welcome to BuzzMusic! "Lost Again" is such an awesome track! Did this track develop from your own spur of the moment road trip? Hello Buzz Music, I’m so glad y’all are real haha. Yes, we wrote it depicting the moment s of being out on the road, and expressing the future! When you create music, what do you want listeners to experience when they are hearing your pieces? When we’re writing music we try our best to convey the emotion and feeling of the moment in time we were referring to, this song reflects on past memories of being on the open road and leaving all the stress of everyday life behind. You have such a familiar and present sound. Do you share any musical influences that have impacted your music? Oh gosh, we’ve been influenced by a ton of the greats! As a group, we love the Beatles, beach boys, my morning jacket, tame impala, Mac Demarco, Mac Miller. I know this song was channeling of the beach and I really wanted some lazy vocals like Wreckless Eric! So that’s where the lazy tone came from! I think we’re just trying to make something fun and groovy. As a band of 4, how do you ensure everyone's creative viewpoint is heard and incorporated? With quarantine, this has been hard. It’s a lot of emails and discord calls. I know with this upcoming single we’re dropping in June, we’d go through the song second by second to scan from tones and imperfections. We’re trying our best to make music that’s worth sharing! So we all just take time to express how we feel about the tones and vibes! Thank you for chatting with us Blue Willow. What projects will you be working on in the coming months? We’ve actually finished a whole album and are currently undergoing the final stages of production. We started back in March, and have been working hard to get a 10 song album together! So hopefully by the fall, we should release it! facebook.com/OfficialBlueWillowBand instagram.com/bluewillowband #BUZZMUSIC

Zitro blesses BuzzMusic once again with his limitless musical stylings through his recent single “Information.” The New York native has been brightening up the music industry for the past decade, providing us with fusions of many genres and a modern flair to new jack swing and soul. Zitro’s latest single “Information” does this and much more by displaying vast instrumentals and different cultural elements. All to be evened out with Zitro’s high energy and fierce vocals that provide us with intellectual stimulation through his conceptual lyricism. An overall groovy tune to get down to, “Information” shares Zitro’s expansive knowledge and analytical mind. Wasting no time, Zitro blasts right into “Information” with an array of instrumentals that set off a lively atmosphere. He gives us lyrics that hit right on reality, as Zitro expresses that with the loudmouth of today’s society, it’s difficult to confide in people with confidence. Praising his thought process and how he’s be-friended himself in his mind, Zitro lets us in on the harsh truth of leaving a few thoughts unsaid. What keeps the energy flowing is the up-beat instrumentals through an anthemic organ, punching drum patterns, plucky electric guitars, and the sweet touch of the sitar. Really bringing an introspective journey with “Information,” we can see why Zitro has made it this long in the industry. You can find "Information" here. Great to have you back on BuzzMusic, Zitro! We’re really getting down with your up-beat and groovy single “Information.” What underlying themes did you want to stand out within the single? I wanted to open up the discussion of sanity and what it is to be afraid of opening up to somebody such as a therapist in fear of having a label slapped on you, such as “crazy”. Throughout your recent single “Information,” Zitro blesses our ears with an array of soulful instrumentals. How did you go about creating the instrumentals and making them relate to the message of the song? Sometimes a song will appear and then I let the song write itself. As Michael Jackson said, “artists tend to get in the way of the music, (you must) get out of the way of the music”. Whatever instrument or sound matches my idea will go in, whatever doesn’t will be left alone. Zitro is said to be in the process of creating your fifth EP. What might we expect from the upcoming project, and what themes it incorporates? I am working on a fifth album, which I’m almost done with. The last album was all about nostalgia and teen lifestyle, the one before that discussed ups and downs in everyday life, this one will be a compilation of angry rants put to music. I really show off my opinionated side, and if people don’t like that, then hopefully they can at least dance to the beat itself because I believe this is my funkiest material to date. We’ve heard that Zitro has been running ten years strong in the music industry. What’s kept you creating for this long, and what inspires you after years of music? I don’t know anything else, and I refuse to try anything else if it means giving music up. So I really had no choice but to keep going. What can we expect to see from you throughout 2020? I have a couple of collaborations that have been recorded but unreleased at the moment, they will most likely be out this year. And I’m looking to do even more features. And this fifth album mentioned earlier won’t be my last 2020 project. I will have time left over to create and put material out. It’s an addiction. facebook.com/zitrotunes instagram.com/ZitroOfficial twitter.com/zitromusix #BUZZMUSIC

Hailing from LA is the political activist and singer Crash Barbosa, using music as an outlet for social justice issues, and mental health awareness allows for Crash Barbosa to make thoughtful experiences that help the listener feel his thoughts. Crash Barbosa has the upcoming album 'Checks & Balances' set to release later this year. Before his album releases, Crash Barbosa released a political statement of a song, "My Name Is Still Crash," and this one does not hold back for a moment on what Crash Barbosas' views are. As soon "My Name Is Still Crash" begins, we get hit with incredibly laid back but hard-hitting lyrics that share Crash Barbosas' views on current society and what the problems are. Using spontaneously dynamic vocals filled with flavorful delay throws, pitch shift effects, and expensive adlibs over a tense but steady 808 drum beat with some quirky horns. The chorus allows for Crash Barbosas' message to get through to the listener in a way that will keep each lyric memorable. We are loving how bold this release is and cannot wait to hear what will be coming in his upcoming album 'Checks & Balances.' Be sure to listen to “My Name Is Still Crash” here. Welcome to BuzzMusic Crash Barbosa, we’re loving how forward you were with your release “My Name Is Still Crash”, were there any particular events that were used as the source of inspiration for this one? Yes actually, a lot of events. I was going through legal issues at the time, and I kept seeing people in court getting herded into the system. Some of them in Military Fatigues and I couldn’t believe that on top of everything else. I wrote a lot of that song while awaiting hearings outside of the Court Room. I felt like I was being hated for being me, there wasn’t any reality in what they were saying about me. That lead me to come up with “My Name is Still Crash” as a concept. I was like “What did I do to any of you? I’m still the same person you have no problem putting on a pedestal and having spoken with schools and now the system has issues with who I am? That’s crazy, I’ve never been anything outside of truthful with everybody.” It kind of went from a place of refusing to change my content while facing an absurd amount of Political Blowback. We’re loving how simplistic but driving the backing beat it, what was that whole creation process like? How did you come up with using those quirky horns in the chorus? The creation process was very simple and wholesome. I was working with my Producer Cali Dreamz, and I heard some instruments I liked a lot on a beat he was working a skeleton out for. The beat was initially at 120 bpm and I asked him to slow it down to 80 bpm. From there we picked out some Instruments I liked and wanted to emphasize. In all of my music, I try to allow my voice to guide the song, rather than allow the song to guide my voice at all. The horns stem specifically from Dreamz being an old school West Coast type of Producer and showing me different sounds to represent that. He used to work with DJ Quik and works with a lot of big West Coast names from now and the “Golden Era.” That definitely influenced our decision to use them, as well as his creation of those horns. It just sounded right. It made sense. Being originally from New York and now being in LA, how has the culture of each city influenced the music you are creating? That’s always a great question, being as I’m influenced directly by both coasts. I’ve been in LA most of my life and grew up on all types of music. I was the kid wearing an Iron Maiden shirt with Jordan’s in Middle School. Both cultures of Hip Hop and Punk have influenced my music from the very beginning. Poetry was what I was known for prior to rapping which I started doing at 18, due to everybody asking me to do it. I always say nobody is a rapper if they had to call themselves a rapper before anybody else. I don’t even like labels, I personally prefer to be called a vocalist. That’s more what I do. My music also is very influenced by the South, I can’t give NY and Cali points for my style without including the South. I’ve always done business with people in the South, such as  Underground Railroad Entertainment. They’re a big factor in my music to this day. My music couldn’t exist in the almost “lecture form” I record in without drums and 808’s with Southern Influence. That’s the punk in all of it. The Dirty South sound is just raw, it reminds me of 77 Punk in attitude if that was being compared to Agent Orange. Both are awesome, and wouldn’t exist without each other well. With your upcoming album ‘Checks & Balances’ set to release later this year, how does this release compare to the upcoming tunes? How do you feel you have grown as an artist with the new material? That release will be more of the same Politically and Socially. I’m focused on Political Activism above the music at this stage in my life for sure, but there will be other material coming out this year. Menace 2 Society is another song I just released with Cali Dreamz, and that’s very telling of my musical direction. I’ve grown as a vocalist more than anything else. I’ve grown as a songwriter, but I didn’t have to struggle with it as much as vocals. Nobody thinks I struggle with vocals at any point besides me though. I just know that’s something I needed Vocal Coaching in. Whether for breath control or for cadence, that’s one of the first things I ever had to go out of my way to improve at in life. I’ve always been open to learning, and a fast learner. That was a nice reality check honestly. I knew what I was doing, but I didn’t know how I was doing it. Learning correct form with vocals (cadence, breath control, etc) from an Academic level was really interesting. I expect to be budding out into other genres as well. Is there anything else we can expect from you for 2020? Yes!!! Menace 2 Society just came out with Cali Dreamz. That video is amazing and coming soon. I have videos for songs off the album that nobody has heard yet. I’m making a series called #CrashBarbosaSaidWhat that has its first episode out on IGTV. I’m also exploring working with other genres, I’d like to have a punk band or something similar to Rage Against the Machine going as well very soon. Politically, I always expect to see plenty of me as well. That’s the soul behind everything I do. I’m a Political Activist before I’m anything. If things don’t change, I can’t imagine what they’ll look like within 20 years. It’s not ok. Inaction is Action. Everybody can and should be doing there part. Especially Musicians, and other Public Figures. If we don’t use our influence to make the world a better place, then the Public deserves better Public Figures. Those are the facts. instagram.com/CrashBarbosa facebook.com/RealCrashBarbosa #BUZZMUSIC

Indie rock-inspired guitars lead us into Lithic's new song, "Nightmares." The band is delivering heavy subject matter intertwined in "Nightmares" lyrics. The lead singer brings vocal stylings comparable to Muses' Matthew James Bellamy. His broad tenor vocal range lights this song afire. Together since college days at Boston's coveted Berklee College of Music, Lithic has transplanted their genre-bending sound to Southern California. The band's distinct ability to blend rock, grunge, funk, psychedelic, and pop sound brings an energized sound to the stereo. "Nightmares" is set to ticking percussion and whaling guitars that reflect the lead singers varying and expansive lyrical tone. "Nightmares" gives the markings of an indie rock track on the surface, but the dark and profound lyrics provide great depth and substance for listeners to dive into. On "Nightmares," we hear of a son's loss of his father's from cancer. Lyrics like, "I think of my mother because she was my only light," "Don't tell me you have all the answers, don't tell me how to deal with cancer" and "After all this time I feel my hearts been left behind" are delivered with an intense rawness. We are digging Lithic's uncut and original sound. Do not deprive yourself of experiencing Lithic's artistry and listen to "Nightmares." Be sure to listen to "Nightmares" here. Hello Lithic and welcome to BuzzMusic. Your latest release "Nightmares" is an intense lyrical display of loss and despair. Can you explain what you wanted to exhibit on this track and how you wanted to connect to listeners with its subject matter? Jack (Guitar & Vocals): Yeah, this one definitely touches on some deep stuff. When I was thirteen, my dad passed away from kidney cancer. Just like anyone who loses a loved one, I went through many harrowing stages of grief. A couple of years ago, it had been eight years since his passing, and I was hit with a wave of grief that I could have never anticipated. I wanted to write a song about my sorrow and frustration surrounding not being able to fully move on. I’m starting to realize that the scar will always be there. It gets just a bit better every year, but that kind of loss never truly leaves you. What does the creative flow look like for Lithic? How does the band take into account everyone's ideas of how a particular project should take shape? Juan (Bass): Each song starts with an idea: it could be a melody, a riff, or even just a hook. When someone brings the idea to the band we then work together to get an arrangement and we imagine what the song will sound like. Every member writes his own parts and brings something unique to the table. We trust each other’s musicality and we always end up on the same page (eventually). With such a wide range of sound, who are some of your touchstone musical influences you share as a band? Stone (Guitar & Vocals): We’re an eclectic cabal of cretins; we love a ton of different music! That being said, We share a love for music that oozes creativity and groove. It is not uncommon to hear us listening to Fleetwood Mac, Billie Eilish, Rage Against the Machine, The Beatles, Alice in Chains, The 1975, etc. We are all students of music and performance. Together our individual tastes blossom into a garden. We've all missed out a lot recently on the ability of taking in music live. What do you miss most about playing live in front of an audience? Marvin (Drums): Our live performances are at the core of Lithic’s creative work. Exchanging energy with people at our live shows is what we started with. Even after releasing recorded music into the world, playing live is still the truest expression of who we are. Not sharing these magical moments and feeding off of the energy of our audience is extraordinarily challenging. Also, it’s just the most fun thing to do in the world and a cold withdrawal from it is probably worse than quitting heroin. There are also plenty of people that seem to enjoy the music we’ve been putting out, and them not having the opportunity to see us play these songs live is certainly a bummer. It’s like dreaming of making your favourite dish, but being a shitty cook. That said, there’s not much we can do about it, so–as we German’s say–we just gotta wait and drink tea. instagram.com/lithicofficial facebook.com/lithicofficial lithicofficial.com #BUZZMUSIC

Returning to BuzzMusic with her dynamic pop-rock single "Float On," Zea Sy brings an incredibly different tone to modern pop and rock. While being inspired by rock and R&B legends, Zea Sy decided to take her brand one step further and participate in a side project with the "Bamboo Entertainment Foundation," where they help make ends meet for struggling artists. Through her recent single "Float On," Zea Sy merges the likes of scorching mid-tempo rock and the ambiance of transcendent synths within pop music, all to provide us with a unique approach to songwriting/creation. Opening with light and filtered keys, "Float On" increases in pace and volume very gradually. Zea Sy provides beautiful soprano vocals bringing forward the likes of artists likeGrimes, FKA TwigsandHANA. She sings empowering lyrics of moving on from the turmoil we've all experienced (especially now) and finding peace within the unknown in order to grow. The underlying production and instrumentals come together to create sonic brilliance with the human touch of melancholy keys and pulsing violin strings. Also creating a darker mood within the growling synths and dynamic transitions, really allowing us to put aside trivial matters and focus on what's important, being our inner growth. "Float On" is one of many Zea Sy's releases that effortlessly captivates listeners. Discover "Float On" here. Welcome back to BuzzMusic, Zea Sy! We’d like to say how inspiring your single “Float On” is and how you make peace with the unknown. What was the main theme or message you wanted to get across with the single? For me, being home and away from all my friends and family has been killing me. I miss people so bad. There are days when I just want to stay in bed and not work on myself, my goals, relationships... Sometimes I just need a reminder to keep pushing. To keep going. To not give up on doing what I love, spending time with people I love ( from a distance), and growing overall as a person. This song was to give myself a reminder. I hope it does that for anyone who hears it. Keep pushing my people!! Speaking on the overall sound within “Float On”, it looks as though Zea Sy went for a dark pop sound with rock ’n roll elements. Why did you steer in this unique direction and provide a different sound, rather than with straightforward rock? Honestly, It just felt good to do. Mixing genres is a favorite thing of mine. No one just likes ONE type of music. We are a mixed culture so of course we should have mixed styles of music. Through your last interview with BuzzMusic, Zea Sy stated that you write songs with whichever emotions you’re feeling in that moment. Could you share how you take these moments and elaborate on them to really provide a strong message? I have been having major ups and downs during this quarantine. So I think the music really reflects that. I think it's important to be conversational in a song, even if you're talking to yourself. I write a lot of songs in my car... to myself and God. I think God gives me the clarity to really haggle out any misconstrued concepts or ideas that I'm wanting to portray to keep them simple and catchy. We’ve heard that Zea Sy undertook philanthropy by working with the “Bamboo Entertainment Foundation”, where you come together with various artists/producers, etc. All to help make ends meet for struggling artists. What made you get involved with philanthropy and use your career for the greater good? If you aren't giving you're dying. Ryan and I know how tough it is being an artist, especially during this time. We don't have much to give but can give regardless. We do these free monthly shows (now virtual) where the object is your ticket is not monetary, it's a service or item we are doing a drive for. For example, at a physical show, if we partnered with an organization that is looking for socks, your ticket to the show is socks. We DO accept monetary funds that help sponsor artists and help them with, mixing, mastering, photos, or even food and rent. As artists, it's our responsibility to share not just our art, but our talent and selves with those that need it. If you want to help at all please check out, https://www.patreon.com/BambooEntertainmentFoundation. In the meantime, check out our monthly shows on Instagram! What's next for Zea Sy? I have about 3-4 songs ready to be released that Ry and I are working on. Obviously things got held back due to Covid-19 but lots of writing has been going on. I'm stoked for the year and honored that I can do what I love even with all the challenges. Don't give up people. Keep floating on / pushing on and helping others along the way. We WILL get through this. instagram.com/zeasymusic facebook.com/ZeaSyMusic #BUZZMUSIC

Toronto based singer/songwriter Holly Santonato returns to BuzzMusic with her expressive and soulful single “Fine Wine.” Using music as her therapy, Holly Santonato attended Seneca College and studied Independent Music Production to help her navigate her path in regard to business in the music industry. Through her latest release “Fine Wine,” Holly Santonato brings an incredibly alluring and sensual experience, through peaceful R&B/soul and jazz instrumentation/production and her incredible vocal array from hauntingly low octaves to steaming falsetto. “Fine Wine” lets us take our time to enjoy the little things in life through Holly Santonato’s appreciative and warm lyricism. She is starting out with an incredibly chill atmosphere through filtered jazz licks and Holly Santonato’s effortlessly powerful vocals, giving “Fine Wine” a distinct tone. Holly sings beautiful lyrics of finding peace when being with someone and letting them know how much she appreciates the efforts they’ve made. Once we reach the chorus, a vibrant kick through R&B production gives “Fine Wine” driving depth, just like Holly Santonato’s deep and vulnerable emotions she portrays. Once the entire percussion sets in, the mellow and serene vibe is challenging to ignore through whole sounding instrumentals. Truly creating a gravitating piece of soul, Holly Santonato’s “Fine Wine” allows us to sit back and bask in the songs shining light. Discover "Fine Wine" here. Great to have you back at BuzzMusic, HollySantonato! We’re loving your recent release “Fine Wine” Could you tell us how you managed to pour your heart and soul into this piece through your songwriting? Hey! Thank you for the opportunity, and thank-you for the love on 'Fine Wine'! Writing this song was so freeing; I wanted to give the listeners a visual, using the metaphor of drinking wine, of what it feels like when you're embarking on something new. Hence the lyric, ..'so please, take your time, and sip on my flavors like fine wine'.. I wanted to portray a vibe and a sense of familiarity to not knowing something but being intrigued enough to taste it or try it and indulge in the journey a new experience can take you on. Speaking on your recent release “Fine Wine”, Holly Santonato incorporates blissful atmospheres through melodic and mellow instrumentation/production. Could you share what sound and feel you were aiming for when creating “Fine Wine”? Most definitely! The sound and feel I was aiming for with "Fine Wine" was a sultry, R&B, relax at night kind of vibe. I was aiming for listeners to feel the motions of relaxation while also absorbing the lyrical content as the song played. As some say, "Feel the music" and relate to the metaphorical lines from the core of the song. I wanted listeners to indulge, give a light head bop from the mellow production, and hum along to the beat. We’ve heard that music has become a sense of therapy for Holly Santonato, as you’ve always had an interest in singing and poetry. How do you create music with the intention of expressing yourself, but still allowing others to relate? Yes! Music has constantly been a crutch for me to lean on. I create music with the intention to express myself, keeping in mind that everyone experiences similar feelings at some point in their life. I read this post one time that had said, "the beautiful thing about music is that every song was meant for somebody", and that really resonated with me as a creative because that is how I create and how I relate to my listeners. Every song out there is meant for someone, is helping someone through something or inspiring someone. Whenever I get that feeling to write based on an emotion or something that triggered the motive to create, I know that someone else has had similar feelings but perhaps from something nonrelated to my situation. The beautiful thing is that connection through familiarity that brings people together, creating a place for people to feel comfort in knowing they're not alone.  Since your recent feature with BuzzMusic in September of last year, Holly Santonato, you mentioned that the best thing that could happen for you as an artist is to solidify a fan base. Do you think your audience has grown since then and is this still the most important aspect for your career? Yes, I do feel as though my audience is growing and I am content with understanding that it takes time. I am super appreciative to everyone who vibes out to my music and I feel that since September I have seen an increase on listeners on platforms where my music is listed. I do feel it is still an important aspect of my career because when the development of a strong amount of people is solidified as a "fan base" for my music, it can then create more opportunities for me as an artist within the music industry. As much as building a supportive audience, also creating content and more music is also a main priority and a highly significant aspect for my career in helping me further prosper.  What can we expect to see from you next? More music, more content, and just more overall activity on my part as a creative. I am consistently creating new material. Currently, I am working on finishing the rest of a mini E.P; I am working to push out another track by the end of this year *fingers crossed*. Also, a remix of 'Fine Wine' is in the works to being released and I am very excited for that. For this, I am working with a really dope artist, virtually, of course, considering the pandemic the world is currently experiencing, and I can't wait for everyone to hear that version of the song. During this time of quarantine, I am working on keeping myself busy while also converting my annual live event "Show Love" into a virtual segment via IG live; so please stay tuned for that on my page, IG:holly.s.music, as I am collaborating with a bunch of great artists from the city to perform. instagram.com/holly.s.music #BUZZMUSIC

After a groundbreaking launch back in 2018, Co-Founder’s Tyler Boone and Sean Carpenter have decided to take the next step with their artist/music service company Artist Formula and transform into Artist Formula Record Group. Gaining worldwide music distribution with KMG Distribution (powered by The Orchard/Sony RED), Artist Formula is excited to announce that this partnership will provide artists with the most favorable rates while leaving all control and 100% ownership to the client. While keeping their main goal of helping artists achieve the most affordable music services possible, Artist Formula happily maintains those services and goes thoroughly into detail regarding marketing, promotion, and setup. Always making sure that each campaign is approached with the same importance yet different tactics, Artist Formula provides an in house viral team to ensure that all clients have the equal opportunity for maximum exposure to their unique fanbases. While also updating new official Artist Formula playlists across many genres, the company works hard to come in from all ends of the industry and expand their brand. Now that Artist Formula has launched its label arm Artist Formula Record Group, we’re both excited to see how the company will evolve with this exciting shift. Check out our exclusive interview with Artist Formula below. Welcome to BuzzMusic, Artist Formula! Starting off, could you take us back to the big launch in 2018 and explain the driving force behind why Tyler Boone and Sean Carpenter wanted to create the Artist Formula company? Sean and myself launched Artist Formula back in 2018 after Sean came up with the idea that we could start an "a la carte" friendly music services company, run by young like-minded artists like ourselves. I was burned by someone we knew personally and we believed we could do this better and honestly, so we did. Since then we have worked with the likes of Warner Music, BMG, New West Recs, Roundhill Recs, Pure Pop Music, Plowboy Recs, Team Clermont, Baby Robot Media, Burning Ground Entertainment, Tactical Strategists, etc...it's been pretty incredible. We focused on real listenership on Spotify playlists first and then it led to Instagram, YouTube, SoundCloud & now with worldwide music distribution with KMG (powered by The Orchard) under the Royalty Network. We’ve heard that recently Artist Formula has transitioned into the Artist Formula Record Group. While giving artists/clients favorable rates and 100% ownership, what else might intrigue artists to take on their services with Artist Formula? Back in March, we were approached by Ross Robey of KMG Distribution to offer Artist Formula worldwide distribution (turning now into Artist Formula Record Group) & a very fair split that always favors the artist. I myself have had many distribution deals and this is quite incredible as you gain all the services from a top-tier distribution company to all the DSP's but also with no ownership into your own mechanical or publishing. You are still free to do what you please with your own "master" which is very important since I've had my publishing claimed by other companies in the past without any direct notice before (it was horrible). I would say our major upside when we offer services is we always complete them instead of a standard response a lot of indie artists get "we tried, wish you the best of luck" that most us artists receive when hiring a company online. We wanted to change that and we feel strongly about this. If we ever feel an artist wasn't pleased we always do our best to make sure they are satisfied before we step away. We want them to come back again and again. We do this with very specific advertisements. We never turn them off and we are always adjusting. This method is becoming very common, but it's how great you can keep your advertisements. We strive to keep them both strong & healthy. From marketing, promotion, management, and much more, it’s clear that Artist Formula has worked incredibly hard to help artists expand in every aspect of their career. Can you please specify what campaigns you offer to our artist's readers? Our campaigns are very simple. We work in 5 areas: 1) Spotify 2) Instagram 3) YouTube 4) SoundCloud 5) Distribution Our campaigns are specific but we can always work towards a certain goal the artist is working towards. For more information on what we do, please fill out this form below www.artistformula.com/spotify We are very excited about this launch, especially during these uncertain times where all artists are now focusing on the internet instead of touring. Thank you again Buzz Music LA! artistformula.com instagram.com/artistformula #BUZZMUSIC

Hey HARLEY, welcome to BuzzMusic! Seeing as your recent song “HYPNOS” surrounds a weird and broken relationship, what was the songwriting process like between the three of you when creating “HYPNOS”? Hi! Thank you so much for having us on BuzzMusic! Hypnos is such a wild story to us. Kimo’s (drummer) girlfriend [at the time] bailed on him one night, which was normal. So he ended up hanging out with me (Cade James Carl - frontman) and some other friends. She didn’t like it and decided to start a fight via text. She wouldn’t pick up the phone BUT THEN called him just to break-up. I was watching it all happen in real-time. We wrote this song on that night, those moments, and the large array of emotions I watched unfold. We try to tell our stories and our message in the same way that they affected us. First, I found a melody that portrayed the emotion in the light that we wanted. Then we all sat down and just started unraveling the story piece by piece on how it played out in real life - lyrically, then sonically. The instrumentals and production within “HYPNOS” give off an amazing warm summer feel to it. Why did HARLEY choose to release this post-break-up song on the cusp of summer? Great question. This whole thing happened in summer so we wanted to keep everything consistent with the real story. It was such a dramatic event, but we also wanted to make the song super easy to listen to, to show the beauty in the breakup. Kimo’s now engaged so it’s on purpose that the melody is in pain, but the song sounds like hope - it reps the whole picture. Speaking on the overall production and atmosphere within “HYPNOS”, HARLEY brings a hot west coast vibe through the instrumental ambiance. How did the three of you go about experimenting with what sounds the best suit the message of the song? I love this question so much. Mainly because I love tone so much. It drives the background of the song and really creates the mood and atmosphere, as you said. We have a catalog of tones we’ve made and of tone references for colors we’d like to paint with. We work very closely with our producer, Abe DiMare, who is an absolute tone genius as well. We wanted our lead synth tone in this track to be nostalgic. We wanted it to put the listener in the moment that the bridge and choruses describe - spacing out in your car and leaving you reminiscent. We love to make daydream music to help people escape from the mundane of reality - tones definitely do that. With regards to HARLEY’s discography, what can the band say about your release “HYPNOS”, and how it relates or stands out from the rest of your music? I’d say that this song just proves that we are learning and adapting. We are really starting to embrace our sound and how tones and melodies play into our emotions and the emotions of others. HYPNOS is our favorite track so far. Promise each song we release will be better than the last. Within HARLEY’s overall sound as a band, we’ve noticed that you create pop but also drift into different alternative aspects as well. Does HARLEY intend to stay true to their pop sound, or might there be some musical experimentation in the future? Wow, I love these questions so much. HARLEY will always have a pop base - pop melodies, pop beats for sure. That’s HARLEY. But because we love tones so much and we rely on them to help tell our stories, I think we will dip into that alternative sound some depending on what we are trying to say or make you feel as we have done with previous releases. We are huge fans of warmer, summer-like tones. It’s engraved into our bones, so that will continue to be a constant in our music. You can listen to "HYPNOS" here. instagram.com/weareharley #BUZZMUSIC

The deacon of funk John Gordon returns to BuzzMusic, this time taking a more in-depth listen into his track "Missing me" off his recent EP 'Luv Junkie.' With an experienced and personable background in the industry, John Gordon went from hiding his talent in fear of "messing up" to venturing into neo-soul jazz bands and eventually into his solo R&B career with nothing but class. His recent hit "Missing Me" is said to be one of those expressive songs written slightly under the influence in the middle of the night, and getting hit with a wave of emotion surrounding post-breakup regret. John Gordon blends the likes of nostalgic and pure R&B with timeless jazz grooves that speak fluently with our feelings. "Missing Me" opens with a mid-tempo drum break establishing the mix of R&B and jazz from the very beginning. John Gordon begins serenading us with personal lyrics of wishing he had put more effort into a relationship, jam-packed full of those post-breakup thoughts that pitch camp in the corners of our mind. While the supporting instrumentation remains incredibly soulful, especially with textured brass elements and layered harmonies from the Three iii's (Cori Robinson, Nophi Mitchell, and Danni Gee), which evens out the limitless passion that "Missing Me" strikes us with. John Gordon's songwriting pierces right through this track, exhibiting his fearless approach to creating while tying in the soul that R&B should always provide. John Gordon serves us those debilitating emotions and expresses himself through grooves that reach into our hearts. "Missing Me" definitely isn't a track to scroll past. Be sure to check out "Missing Me" here. Hey John Gordon, a warm welcome back to BuzzMusic! After taking a deeper listen to your song “Missing Me”, we’re incredibly moved by your precise lyricism surrounding breakups. What helped you write and conjure up these emotions to perfect your message within “Missing Me”? I’m sentimental to a fault. Give me an opportunity to walk down memory lane and I will. So “Missing Me” began late at night, after being out drinking with friends, coming home alone and wanting to text somebody I shouldn’t. That person you never really got over. So what helped me conjure up those emotions? REAL LIFE. I still wonder if he misses me. We’ve heard that within your song “Missing Me”, John Gordon was accompanied by the Three iii’s and their beautiful brass and background vocals. Why did you want to incorporate these jazzy elements within your song, did you have a specific sound in mind prior to creating? I had this retro-soul, jazzy, torch song with a touch-of-Sharon & The Dap Kings-vibe in mind for this tune. From the start, I wanted this to tug at you and make you remember the love that never quite worked out. Because that’s how I was feeling.  And when I brought it to Anthony Robustelli and David Innis, my producers, it really came to life in such a bigger way than I had originally imagined. So to clarify, the “Three iii’s” are actually my dear friends and background singers, Cori, Nophi and Danni. They sing with me whenever I perform live and for this song, yes, I wanted that live feeling.  I wanted to add that Motown girl group sound, Martha & The Vandellas, The Supremes. Each of those ladies has a unique tone but they all blend well together. And I love to croon. Soulful crooners also have soulful backup singers. So they are an integral part of the sound. Anthony, came up with the horn arrangement, which really takes the song to an unbelievable climax. Sure, we could have programmed it all and saved time and money. But we all agreed, live horns were going to add that sense of strength, drama and authenticity that you can’t get from programming. Those horns are KILLER! Shout out to Paul Brandenberg, Robert Susman and Dave Mullen for bringing the brass! John Gordon is said to have much experience within the industry, from being a gospel singer, in a neo-soul jazz band and venturing off into your own solo career. What lessons have you taken away from your journey that helped shape who you are as an artist today? Always come from a genuine place.  People know when you’re faking it. But when you sing from a vulnerable, genuine, truthful place and you believe what you’re singing, the audience will be right. there. with. you. Surrender to the flow. Performing is just like praying or meditation for me. It’s spiritual. It’s the most profound feeling for me and I’m always trying to get back to that feeling when I’m singing. When I let go and surrender to the flow of the music, I find that the ultimate connection with the music AND the audience. But it’s a great metaphor for life, as well. When I let go and stop fighting or struggling for what I want in life, those things come to me more easily. Do what you love. Follow your gut and do what makes you vibrate from the inside out. In those rare instances when I had to take a break from singing, I wasn’t happy. I wasn’t being me. I need to sing, to write, to perform, even if I’m not making money. I’m lucky to have figured out what my gifts are and what makes me happy. Isn’t that why we’re all here? So I do music for the LOVE of it, not for the fame or the money. I’ll always do it. You’ve mentioned that living in NYC has helped you see the struggle that many people from different communities endure. How does John Gordon give back to people in need, and would you say that your “giver” mentality ties in with your music? Giving back has been a part of my DNA for a very long time. From service projects in college to raising money for AIDSWALK NY and donating my time and money to organizations like CityHarvest, God’s Love We Deliver, Ali Forney Center, the Human Rights Campaign, Immigration Equality and many others. We are a country of so much excess and yet there are people struggling to just get a meal or live decently. Don’t even get me started on the erosion of rights and the political system in our country. If everybody did one thing, took on just one cause to help someone else, this would be a much better country. Ok, I’m off my soapbox. I’m currently promoting donations to the MusiCares Covid-19 Relief Fund to assist musicians struggling during this pandemic. We need music and creators more than ever right now. What's next for you? “Missing Me” is the debut single from my upcoming EP, Luv Junkie. So expect more music coming really soon. I’m working out how to perform online and which platforms will be the best but I do want to share this music live. There’s nothing better. And I’m still writing new material. I’ve been listening to a lot of house music lately. It would be fire to write a house joint. instagram.com/deaconoffunk twitter.com/deaconoffunk facebook.com/deaconoffunk #BUZZMUSIC